New York's Fracking Prohibition Is the Right Decision

WASHINGTON (December 17, 2014)—New York’s decision to prohibit fracking is the right choice based on the right process, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS).

Below is a statement by Dr. Andrew A. Rosenberg, the director of the Center for Science and Democracy at UCS.

“We’re pleased to see how New York has handled the issue of high-volume hydraulic fracturing of shale. Where many other states have pushed ahead with fracking regardless of the potential risks, New York has taken the health of its communities into account.

“This is how it’s supposed to work – when you are weighing a decision that will have significant public health impacts, it is critical to wait for information on the benefits as well as the risks. As echoed by New York health commissioner Howard Zucker, it is clear that we still don’t know enough about the public health impacts of high-volume hydraulic fracturing. We’re glad to see Gov. Cuomo take public health and the scientific process seriously rather than just giving in to oil and gas interests, and for letting science, not politics, guide this important decision.”

The Union of Concerned Scientists puts rigorous, independent science to work to solve our planet's most pressing problems. Joining with people across the country, we combine technical analysis and effective advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for a healthy, safe, and sustainable future.